Srinagar, July 29 -- Srinagar- The traditional Chhari Mubarak, the sacred mace of Lord Shiva and the holiest symbol of the annual Amarnath Yatra, on Wednesday began its ceremonial journey to the holy cave shrine, marking the start of the age-old rituals associated with the annual pilgrimage.

The procession commenced from the historic Dashnami Akhada at Maisuma in Srinagar and was led by the custodian of the Chhari Mubarak, Mahant Deependra Giri. Accompanied by sadhus and devotees chanting Vedic hymns, the silver mace was taken to the Gauri Shankar Temple in Pahalgam.

At the temple, the traditional Bhoomi Pujan, Navgrah Pujan and Dhwajarohan ceremonies were performed, formally marking the beginning of the Chhari Mubarak pilgrimage in kee...